The National Zoo, or Zoo Negara, might be 21 kilometres from the city centre, but it's worth the journey to see the huge variety of Malaysian and exotic mammals, reptiles and birds on display. The zoo occupies 44 hectares and has more than 5000 animals from more than 400 different species. Of these, the majority are fish and bird species while about a hundred are mammals and reptiles.The zoo is run by the Malaysian Zoological Society, a non-governmental organisation established to create the first local zoo for its citizens. Zoo Negara celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, and over time, the zoo has transformed from a small space with just a few animals to an open concept zoo with over 90% of its animals being kept in spacious living areas with surroundings that are similar to their native habitats. Once you've entered the zoo, watch out for the tram which you can hop on and off at various points near the 16 different exhibits. Some of the highlights are the Reptile Park where you can see saltwater crocodiles, freshwater crocodiles, tortoises and terrapins. There are also snakes to see and shiver over, including the reticulated python and a variety of frogs and toads that come from all over Malaysia. Another draw is the Malaysian Elephants exhibit, which has three elephants who have grown up at the zoo and are now each more than 20 years old. In the walk-in Bird Aviary you can see over 100 species from all around the world. If you fancy having an owl or a cockatoo on your shoulder for a photo, that can be arranged for an extra charge. As well as the exhibits, there are shows put on throughout the day, normally at 11 am and 3 pm, featuring sea lions, macaque monkeys and macaws. The penguin feeding is also worth watching, especially if you are travelling with kids.The National Zoo is open every day of the year except major religious and cultural holidays.
National Zoo Tours and Activities
Visit National Zoo
Cruises & boat tours
See all 21 activitiesOpens in new tabExperience Brooklyn Cruise at Puteri Harbour
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 70 activitiesOpens in new tabFrom Kuala Lumpur: Historical Melaka Day Tour with Lunch
Tours & day trips
See all 1298 activitiesOpens in new tabKuala Lumpur: Suburbs and Batu Caves Half-Day Tour
Attractions
See all 20 activitiesOpens in new tabSkip the Line: Petronas Twin Towers Ticket With Free Hotel Delivery
Classes & workshops
See all 9 activitiesOpens in new tabPrivate Half-Day Kuala Lumpur Photography Tour
Popular places to visit
Bukit Tabur
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Bukit Tabur during your travels in Taman Melawati. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this vibrant area.
Melawati Mall
During your trip to Taman Melawati, you can do some window-shopping at Melawati Mall. Amble around this vibrant area's Chinatown and enjoy its lively bars.
Tunku Abdul Rahman University College Kuala Lumpur Campus
Explore the campus of Tunku Abdul Rahman University College Kuala Lumpur Campus as part of your travels around Kuala Lumpur. Amble within Chinatown or visit the shops in this culturally rich area.
Royal Selangor Visitor Centre
You can enjoy some culture when you stop by Royal Selangor Visitor Centre in Kuala Lumpur. Amble within Chinatown or visit the shops in this vibrant area.
Setapak Central Mall
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home at Setapak Central Mall during your stay in Kuala Lumpur.
Kelab Darul Ehsan
Enjoy a round of golf in Ampang at Kelab Darul Ehsan. Amble within Chinatown or visit the shops in this vibrant area.
Top National Zoo Hotel & Accommodation Deals
- Holidays and getaways similar to National Zoo
- Are there hotels near National Zoo?
- Hotels near popular Kuala Lumpur Attractions
- Hotels near Petronas Twin Towers
- Hotels near Berjaya Times Square
- Hotels near Pavilion Kuala Lumpur
- Hotels near KLCC Park
- Hotels near Mid Valley Megamall
- Hotels near Bukit Jalil National Stadium
- Hotels near Suria KLCC Shopping Centre
- Hotels near Kuala Lumpur Tower
- Hotels near Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre
- Hotels near Batu Caves
- Hotels near Cheras Leisure Mall
- Hotels near Sungei Wang Plaza
- Hotels near Central Market